When someone is struggling, it can be hard for them to reach out. Harder still, to tell someone that they’re thinking about ending their life. The mere mention of the word “suicide” can make people uncomfortable, both the one saying it and the one hearing it.
But that’s exactly why it’s important to talk about it.
“The mere mention of the word ‘suicide’ may be uncomfortable for the person saying it, and it may seem all the more uncomfortable to ask someone to have a conversation about it. But it’s all the more important to do just that — start a conversation about suicide, using the word suicide.” -Clark, trainer at Suicide and Crisis Center of North Texas
Social stigma still lingers around the topic of suicide for many reasons. We don’t always know how others will react: will they take it seriously, will they be judgmental, will they see us as weak, broken, or incapable? Many people also worry about causing someone else distress or about being a burden.
But the truth is, people who care about you want to know. They want to help.
There’s also a myth that talking about suicide can put the idea into someone’s head. That’s simply not true. You can’t inspire the idea of suicide. In reality, many people have contemplated it at some point, and the conversation itself often brings relief and clarity. Talking openly helps reduce shame and creates a space for understanding and healing.
As awareness around mental health grows, more people are willing to talk about suicide and want to know how to support someone who’s struggling. The advantage of this is that we can actually have an open and honest conversation about suicide with less fear. The more we talk, the less power the stigma holds.
How to Start the Conversation
- Pick the right person. Tell someone close to you who cares about you, a friend, family member, or counselor. It might feel safer to tell a stranger, but the people who know you best are more likely to listen and stay engaged. Telling someone close to you offers the best chance to get help.
- Use the word “suicide.” Don’t dance around it. Tip-toeing leaves room for confusion. Being clear about your thoughts and feelings helps others understand what’s really going on. Letting someone know directly that you are considering suicide helps them grasp how serious your situation is and how deeply you may be hurting. The word “suicide” may seem off-putting, but it’s the reality of the conversation, and it’s essential to make sure things are clear and the seriousness of the issue is not downplayed.
- Keep the dialogue open. This won’t be a one-time conversation. It’s important to stay connected and check in regularly. Healing takes time, and having ongoing discussions helps keep the lines of communication open. This open communication allows you to explore all your options before making any decisions.
If you’re not ready to talk with someone you know, or if you’re worried about how they might react, you can always call a crisis hotline. The trained staff at the Texas Crisis Center are there to listen without judgment. They are impartial third parties, educated specifically on suicide prevention, and can give you the space to talk freely and confidentially about what you’re going through.
Avoid turning to AI chatbots or AI tools for serious mental health conversations, depression or sharing your suicide story. They aren’t equipped to handle something as complex and human as suicidal thoughts and might not give good advice at all. Calling a crisis hotline and talking to a trained depression hotline worker with empathy and good listening skills is different; it’s a real human connection, and it can make all the difference.
If you’re struggling, please remember you are not alone. Talking about your suicide story, understanding your emotions, or supporting a loved one can be incredibly powerful. It’s a crucial step toward receiving the right support, making healing possible.
The depression hotline in Texas is always open at (214) 828-1000.
Every call is confidential, and every conversation matters.